Published: June 3, 2024 |

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The Virginia Department of Energy continues its investigation into a fatality at Buchanan Mine #1 in Buchanan County. The incident happened at 4:20 p.m. on Friday, May 31. The 27-year-old coal miner was tragically killed when loose rock fell seven feet from the mine roof.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victim’s family and the entire coal mining community. Virginia coal miners and their safety remain a priority for this agency,” said Virginia Department of Energy Director Glenn Davis.

“This was such tragic news to receive,” said Director of Coal Programs Randy Moore.

“As we begin our investigation into the details behind this young man’s death, we hope that our coal workers will remember to always be aware and take the extra steps to remain safe on the job,” added Moore.

The miner was employed as the evening shift roof bolter. The evening crew had just arrived at the active section to begin their shift when the roof fall occurred. That section remains closed while the investigation continues. The mine has multiple active sections where coal is being removed.

Virginia Energy will work alongside the federal Mine Safety and Health Administration to develop a fatality investigation report over the next few weeks. The last coal mining fatality in Virginia occurred in May 2015. The industry employed more than 2,000 coal miners in 2023.

Buchanan Mine #1 is the largest underground mine in Virginia. Buchanan Minerals Buchanan Mine #1 is owned by Coronado Global Resources.

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